I have arthritis. I feel far too young to write that sentence. But every time I tell someone I have it – in the base of my thumbs – the usual response is they have it too, usually somewhere different. Feet, knees and hips seem to be the common culprits.
It turns out arthritis, which is actually an umbrella term that covers 100 different medical conditions that affect the way the joints work, is the most common cause of chronic pain.
Joint replacement operations have an excellent success rate helping patients who were previously crippled by painful, stiff, arthritic joints be able to walk again. During the operation the surgeon cuts and prepares the bone then places the new prosthesis as accurately as possible in position using a series of jigs, saws and other instruments. Our aim is always to be as accurate as possible but most studies show some variability in how well we achieve this./p>
Canberra surgeons are catching up with us here and have now started using robotics to help with hip replacements.
When Michael Woolley's surgeon suggested that a robot lend a hand with his second hip replacement, he didn't hesitate to say yes.
New cartilage may be 3D printed but unfortunately, this technology is a many years away from being clinically available.
Want to learn more about arthritis. Here are some facts and figures from the UK.
Do medical professionals and family members take arthritis and joint pain seriously? Arthritis Research UK surveyed Telegraph readers with surprising results
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